FROM TRAGEDY TO HERO: Novak Djokovic’s Heartfelt Gesture Inspires Gratitude in India and Beyond
On June 12, 2025, the world was stunned by the catastrophic crash of Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 carrying 242 passengers and crew, which plummeted into Ahmedabad’s Meghani Nagar shortly after takeoff en route to London Gatwick Airport. Among the 241 victims was Pratik Joshi, a software professional based in London since 2019, his wife, Dr. Komi Vyas, and their three children—twin boys Nakul and Pradyut, aged five, and daughter Miraya, aged eight. A poignant selfie of the family, taken moments before the tragedy, went viral, embodying their shattered dreams. The crash, which also claimed lives on the ground, marked the first hull loss of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, leaving India and the global community in profound grief.
Amid this heartbreak, an unexpected figure emerged as a beacon of compassion: Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam tennis champion, renowned for his resilience and humanitarian efforts. Djokovic’s response to the tragedy resonated deeply, earning gratitude from the Indian people and his global fanbase, transforming him into a hero in a time of sorrow.
Upon learning of the crash, Djokovic, who was in London preparing for the Wimbledon Championships, shared a heartfelt message on X: “My heart breaks for the Joshi family and all those lost in the Ahmedabad tragedy. I’m praying for strength and healing for everyone affected.” The post, accompanied by the family’s viral selfie, touched millions, with Indian fans responding, “Novak, your words give us solace. Thank you for standing with us.”
Djokovic’s compassion went beyond words. In a remarkable act, he announced that proceeds from his exhibition match scheduled for June 20, 2025, at London’s All England Club would be donated to relief efforts for the crash victims’ families in Ahmedabad. “No one should endure such loss,” Djokovic said in a video on X. “I dedicate this match to Miraya Joshi, whose smile reminds us to cherish life.” The initiative aimed to fund medical care for the sole survivor, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, and support bereaved families.
This gesture struck a chord in India, where fans praised Djokovic’s selflessness. On X, one user wrote, “Novak Djokovic, your kindness unites us in grief. India is grateful.” His global fans, inspired by his empathy, rallied behind him, with one posting, “Novak’s heart is as big as his backhand. Proud to be his fan!” The exhibition match sold out rapidly, raising an estimated $200,000, with contributions from tennis stars like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, who joined the event to honor the victims.
In Ahmedabad, local organizations expressed gratitude, noting the funds would aid survivors’ medical costs and provide relief for families. Djokovic’s actions bridged continents, uniting India’s grieving communities with his international supporters. His initiative also sparked broader conversations about global solidarity, with other athletes amplifying the cause.
Known for his tenacity on the court, Djokovic revealed a compassionate side off it, reinforcing his legacy as a humanitarian. His response to the tragedy underscored the power of empathy in dark times. As India mourns and his fans rally, Djokovic’s gesture ensures the Joshi family’s memory endures through acts of kindness and unity, proving that even in tragedy, humanity can shine.
